Systems and methods for decorative illumination

ABSTRACT

A rain gutter illumination system having a cover for attaching to a rain gutter with an aperture along the substantial length of the cover, and opposing recesses for retaining a decorative insert. When the decorative insert is inserted in the cover, it is held in place by the recesses, and a light source and optional diffusing panel may be arranged in the cover so that the light source projects light through the aperture of the illuminable surface. The light source may be remotely controllable using a wireless remote control device, such as a smart phone over a network connection.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. Utility patent applicationSer. No. 15/810,391, filed Nov. 13, 2017, which is a Continuation ofU.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 15/459,923, filed Mar. 15,2017, and now patented as U.S. Pat. No. 9,820,363, which is aContinuation of U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 14/590,111,filed Jan. 6, 2015, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. Utilitypatent application Ser. No. 13/554,757, filed Jul. 20, 2012, and nowpatented as U.S. Pat. No. 8,956,000. The entire disclosures of all ofthese documents are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates to the field of illumination for residential andcommercial structures. In particular, to the use of rain gutters andsimilar structural elements for decorative illumination.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Commercial and residential buildings are usually decorated in somefashion. While illumination is generally a practical element of astructure, lighting also serves a dual role as décor. The décor of astructure often varies through the seasons, holidays, and during specialevents, and specialized lighting may be used to augment these variationsin décor. In particular, it is a nearly universal practice in the UnitedStates to decorate both the interior and exterior of practically anystructure with strings of small lights during the Christmas season.

For exterior lighting, specialized lighting is often hung from the raingutters attached to the home or other structure. Attaching lighting to arain gutter is particularly desirable because the linear design of arain gutter, combined with its usual location along the edges of roofsurfaces, creates a bright, aesthetically-pleasing affect byhighlighting the major surfaces of the building and drawing attention tothe structure. The lights are meant to inspire in both the decorator andviewer a sense of mirth and warmth, despite the cold weather and shortwinter days.

However, rain gutters are a particularly difficult structural element todecorate because the gutter is designed to channel water, not acceptdecorations. Rain gutters are designed to support the relativelyevenly-distributed weight of water flowing through the gutter troughand, in particular, the side walls of the rain gutter are designed towithstand the relatively low lateral pressure of parallel water flow,and not to support an amount of weight attached at any one point.Further, the time of year when people most wish to decorate raingutters—winter—is the very time of year that gutters tend to be underthe greatest stress, caused by the presence of ice or snow in the guttertrough. Thus, to avoid damaging the gutter or the item being hung fromit, decorators avoid the use of heavy decorations on rain gutters.

Also, the materials used in rain gutter construction present problems.While rain gutters can be constructed from a wide variety of materials,ranging from steel to wood to concrete, most modern rain gutters aremade from light metals and plastics, such as aluminum and vinyl. Thesematerials are smooth and have low coefficients of friction, which makesit difficult to attach decorations or use adhesives. The decorator alsocannot get around this by drilling holes in the gutters because theholes lower the overall structural strength of the gutter and impair therain gutter's ability to capture and channel water. Additionally, raingutters are a highly visible structural element and a rain gutter fullof visible punctures gives the entire structure the undesirableappearance of a ramshackle, poorly-maintained building, loweringproperty and/or lease value.

Thus, decorators are confined to hanging only very light decorationsfrom rain gutters, such as strings of small Christmas lights, and theydo so using specialized equipment, such as light plastic or metal clipsthat attach to the nose of the gutter and provide a projection fromwhich to hang the light string. In order to present the desirable linearappearance in the string of lights, many dozens of these clips must beattached closely together to prevent sagging in the light strings. Inpractical terms, this means the decorator must spend a significantamount of time balanced at the top of a ladder or precariously perchedat the edge of the roof in order to attach these clips and hang thelights from them and then to take them all down again when the holidayseason has passed.

For structures with high eaves, this task is particularly dangerous, andfalls can result in serious injury. The Center for Disease Controlreports that from 2000 to 2003 alone, more than 15,000 people weretreated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries sustained whilehanging Christmas decorations. [CDC Fall-Related Injuries During theHoliday Season (2004)]. While Christmas is the primary season fordecorating rain gutters, lights for other seasons, notably Halloween,are becoming more common, adding to the risk of injury and damage.

There are few practical methods for decorating a rain gutter, and theavailable methods are fraught with risk to the decorator, the raingutter, the decorations, and the building. Thus, rain gutter décor isgenerally confined to the creative possibilities available with alightweight string of lights, such as the popular “icicle” affect.Further, the hassle and hazard of decorating rain gutters even withthese light strings is serious enough that a market has emerged forsmall businesses whose sole service offering is to hang and removeChristmas lights. Finally, even though these strings of lights areattractive at night, during the daytime the dark wires are highlyvisible and visually unappealing.

SUMMARY

The following is a summary of the invention which should provide to thereader a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. Thissummary is not intended to identify critical components of theinvention, nor in any way to delineate the scope of the invention. Thesole purpose of this summary is to present in simplified language someaspects of the invention as a prelude to the more detailed descriptionpresented below.

Because of these and other problems in the art, described herein, amongother things, is a system for illuminating rain gutters. This systemutilizes a cover and a source of illumination to project illuminationthrough one or more apertures in decorative shapes so as to project anilluminated representation of the decorative shape of the apertureoutwardly to a spectator. Depending on, among other things, the effectdesired and the viewing angle of the spectator, the illumination mayproject in any direction from the structure to which the apparatus isattached.

Described herein, among things, is a rain gutter illumination systemcomprising: a hanger generally in an inverted U-shape and including astem having a distal end; an illuminable surface attached to the distalend of the stem and including an interior side, an exterior sideopposing the interior side, and an aperture from the interior side tothe exterior side; a generally L-shaped base including a leg, a foothaving a proximal end attached to the leg and a distal end attached tothe illuminable surface; a source of illumination projectingillumination through the aperture such that an illuminatedrepresentation of the aperture is projected from the exterior side ofthe illuminable surface.

In an embodiment, the rain gutter illumination system is furthercomprised of a diffusing panel insert adjacent to the aperture.

In an embodiment, the diffusing panel insert is generally translucent.

In an embodiment, the diffusing panel insert is generally transparent.

In an embodiment, the rain gutter illumination system is furthercomprised of a decorative insert adjacent to the aperture and includingan interior side, an exterior side opposing the interior side, and anaperture from the interior side to the exterior side.

In an embodiment, the aperture of the decorative insert is in the shapeof a seasonally-themed symbol.

In an embodiment, the aperture of the decorative insert is in the shapeof a typographical glyph.

In an embodiment, the aperture of the decorative insert is in the shapeof a logo or trademark.

In an embodiment, the source of illumination is selected from the groupconsisting of: single-color lights, multi-color lights, flashing lights,blinking lights, strobe lights, runway lights, black lights.

Also described herein, among other things, is a method for decorativeillumination comprising: providing an illumination system comprising ahanger, a base, a source of illumination, and an illuminable surfaceincluding an interior side, an exterior side opposing the interior side,and an aperture from the interior side to the exterior side; placing theillumination system on a rain gutter; illuminating the source ofillumination to project illumination through the aperture.

In an embodiment of the method, the method further comprises: in theproviding, the illumination system further comprises a diffusing panelinsert; locating the diffusing panel insert between the source ofillumination and the illuminable surface; illuminating the source ofillumination to project illumination through the diffusing panel insert.

In an embodiment of the method, the method further comprises: in theproviding, the illumination system further comprises a decorative insertincluding an interior side, an exterior side opposing the interior side,and an aperture from the interior side to the exterior side; locatingthe decorative insert between the source of illumination and theilluminable surface; illuminating the source of illumination to projectillumination through the aperture of the decorative insert.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1B provide an exploded view of an embodiment of the rain gutterillumination system. The spatial relationship of the components depictedin FIGS. 1A and 1B are for purpose of clarity and are not intended torepresent or imply a spatial relationship between or among the depictedelements.

FIG. 2 provides an assembled view of an embodiment of the rain gutterillumination system. In this embodiment, the rain gutter illuminationsystem does not include an embodiment of a diffusing panel insert, norof a decorative insert.

FIG. 3 provides an assembled view of an embodiment of the rain gutterillumination system. In this embodiment, the rain gutter illuminationsystem includes an embodiment of a diffusing panel insert, but does notinclude an embodiment of a decorative insert.

FIG. 4 provides an assembled view of an embodiment of the rain gutterillumination system. In this embodiment, the rain gutter illuminationsystem includes an embodiment of a diffusing panel insert, and adecorative insert.

FIG. 5 provides an embodiment of the rain gutter illumination system. Inthis embodiment, the rain gutter illumination system does not include anembodiment of a diffusing panel, nor of a decorative insert. In thisembodiment, the apertures in the illuminable surface are in a decorativeshape.

FIG. 6 provides an embodiment of the rain gutter illumination system. Inthis embodiment, the rain gutter illumination system does not include anembodiment of a diffusing panel, nor of a decorative insert. In thisembodiment, there is more than one hanger, and the shape of the hangervaries.

FIG. 7 provides an embodiment of the rain gutter illumination system. Inthis embodiment, the rain gutter illumination system does not include anembodiment of a diffusing panel, nor of a decorative insert. In thisembodiment, the system includes more than one hanger, and more than onebase.

FIGS. 8A-8B depict alternative embodiments of a rain gutter illuminationsystem using foam stabilizing elements.

FIGS. 9A-9B depict alternative embodiments of a rain gutter illuminationsystem having structural stabilizing elements.

FIG. 10 depicts a system for illuminating a rain gutter using a remotecontrol device to control the lights.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

Although the present invention is described with particular reference tothe accompanying drawings, it is to be understood at the outset that itis contemplated that the present invention may vary in specific detailfrom that illustrated and described herein while still achieving thedesirable characteristics and features of the present invention.Accordingly, the description that follows is intended to be understoodas a broad enabling disclosure directed to persons skilled in theapplicable arts, and is not to be understood as being restrictive.

Throughout this disclosure, the term “computer” describes hardware whichgenerally implements functionality provided by digital computingtechnology, particularly computing functionality associated withmicroprocessors. The term “computer” is not intended to be limited toany specific type of computing device, but it is intended to beinclusive of all computational devices including, but not limited to:processing devices, microprocessors, personal computers, desktopcomputers, laptop computers, workstations, terminals, servers, clients,portable computers, handheld computers, smart phones, tablet computers,mobile devices, server farms, hardware appliances, minicomputers,mainframe computers, video game consoles, handheld video game products,and wearable computing devices including but not limited to eyewear,wristwear, pendants, and clip-on devices.

As used herein, a “computer” is necessarily an abstraction of thefunctionality provided by a single computer device outfitted with thehardware and accessories typical of computers in a particular role. Byway of example and not limitation, the term “computer” in reference to alaptop computer would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the artto include the functionality provided by pointer-based input devices,such as a mouse or track pad, whereas the term “computer” used inreference to an enterprise-class server would be understood by one ofordinary skill in the art to include the functionality provided byredundant systems, such as RAID drives and dual power supplies.

It is also well known to those of ordinary skill in the art that thefunctionality of a single computer may be distributed across a number ofindividual machines. This distribution may be functional, as wherespecific machines perform specific tasks; or, balanced, as where eachmachine is capable of performing most or all functions of any othermachine and is assigned tasks based on its available resources at apoint in time. Thus, the term “computer” as used herein, can refer to asingle, standalone, self-contained device or to a plurality of machinesworking together or independently, including without limitation: anetwork server farm, “cloud” computing system, software-as-a-service, orother distributed or collaborative computer networks.

Those of ordinary skill in the art also appreciate that some deviceswhich are not conventionally thought of as “computers” neverthelessexhibit the characteristics of a “computer” in certain contexts. Wheresuch a device is performing the functions of a “computer” as describedherein, the term “computer” includes such devices to that extent.Devices of this type include but are not limited to: network hardware,print servers, file servers, NAS and SAN, load balancers, and any otherhardware capable of interacting with the systems and methods describedherein in the matter of a conventional “computer.”

Throughout this disclosure, the term “software” refers to code objects,program logic, command structures, data structures and definitions,source code, executable and/or binary files, machine code, object code,compiled libraries, implementations, algorithms, libraries, or anyinstruction or set of instructions capable of being executed by acomputer processor, or capable of being converted into a form capable ofbeing executed by a computer processor, including without limitationvirtual processors, or by the use of run-time environments, virtualmachines, and/or interpreters. Those of ordinary skill in the artrecognize that software can be wired or embedded into hardware,including without limitation onto a microchip, and still be considered“software” within the meaning of this disclosure. For purposes of thisdisclosure, software includes without limitation: instructions stored orstorable in RAM, ROM, flash memory BIOS, CMOS, mother and daughter boardcircuitry, hardware controllers, USB controllers or hosts, peripheraldevices and controllers, video cards, audio controllers, network cards,Bluetooth® and other wireless communication devices, virtual memory,storage devices and associated controllers, firmware, and devicedrivers. The systems and methods described here are contemplated to usecomputers and computer software typically stored in a computer- ormachine-readable storage medium or memory.

Throughout this disclosure, terms used herein to describe or referencemedia holding software, including without limitation terms such as“media,” “storage media,” and “memory,” may include or excludetransitory media such as signals and carrier waves.

Throughout this disclosure, the terms “web,” “web site,” “web server,”“web client,” and “web browser” refer generally to computers programmedto communicate over a network using the HyperText Transfer Protocol(“HTTP”), and/or similar and/or related protocols including but notlimited to HTTP Secure (“HTTPS”) and Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol(“SHTP”). A “web server” is a computer receiving and responding to HTTPrequests, and a “web client” is a computer having a user agent sendingand receiving responses to HTTP requests. The user agent is generallyweb browser software.

Throughout this disclosure, the term “network” generally refers to avoice, data, or other telecommunications network over which computerscommunicate with each other. The term “server” generally refers to acomputer providing a service over a network, and a “client” generallyrefers to a computer accessing or using a service provided by a serverover a network. Those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciatethat the terms “server” and “client” may refer to hardware, software,and/or a combination of hardware and software, depending on context.Those having ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that theterms “server” and “client” may refer to endpoints of a networkcommunication or network connection, including but not necessarilylimited to a network socket connection. Those having ordinary skill inthe art will further appreciate that a “server” may comprise a pluralityof software and/or hardware servers delivering a service or set ofservices. Those having ordinary skill in the art will further appreciatethat the term “host” may, in noun form, refer to an endpoint of anetwork communication or network (e.g. “a remote host”), or may, in verbform, refer to a server providing a service over a network (“hosts awebsite”), or an access point for a service over a network.

FIGS. 1A and 1B provide an exploded view of an embodiment of the raingutter illumination system (100). The rain gutter illumination system(100) may consist of an individual rain gutter (102) section or multiplesections attached together. In an embodiment, a plurality of apparatusesis used to illuminate a rain gutter (102). FIGS. 1A and 1B show variouscomponents of the system in isolation from one another for sake ofclarity and the depicted spatial relationship is not intended tosuggest, imply, or represent a relationship between or among thecomponents.

The building (101) is generally a commercial or residential structurebut may be any structure to which a rain gutter (102) may be attached.An embodiment of a rain gutter (102) is shown affixed to the building(101) generally parallel to the top of the building (101) but the raingutter (102) may be attached to the building (101) in any fashion.

The rain gutter (102) will generally be constructed of aluminum or vinylbut may be constructed of any material sufficiently rigid to maintainits own shape (102), including but not limited to: cast iron, lead,zinc, copper, steel, stainless steel, a metal alloy, a galvanized metalor steel, PVC, plastic, vinyl, concrete, stone, or wood. The rain gutter(102) may be adorned or decorated, including but not limited to, bypainting, staining, embossing, or antiquing.

In the depicted embodiment, the rain gutter (102) is affixed to thebuilding (101) by the rain gutter's (102) interior wall (105), but in anembodiment the rain gutter (102) may be affixed to the building (101) inany fashion, including but not limited to by use of hardware or othercomponents not depicted in FIG. 1A. In the depicted embodiment, theexterior wall (106) of the rain gutter (102) has a contoured shape andthe interior wall (105) is generally a flat, elongated polyhedron, butin an embodiment the specific shape of the interior wall (105) andexterior wall (106) may vary from the depicted embodiment and thecharacteristics of the channel (103) likewise may vary. The profileshape of the rain gutter (102) may include, without limitation: K-style,O/G, ogee, half-round, quarter-round, plain fascia, tile fascia, curvedfascia, curved tile, decco, decco tile, box, box deep, box shallow,rolled box, box bead, rolled box bead, double bead, or winged.

In the depicted embodiment, the cover (200) comprises a single hanger(201) comprising an elongated section attached longitudinally to anembodiment of the illuminable surface (205), which is also an elongatedsection attached longitudinally to the base (214). In the depictedembodiment, the hanger (201) and the base (214) affix or stabilize thecover (200) to the rain gutter (102) such that the cover (200) willremain mostly stationary once in place. The illuminable surface (205)may also be referred to as a side element (205) or illuminable element(205).

In the depicted embodiment, the hanger (201) is sized and shaped forattaching to a rain gutter (102). In the depicted embodiment, the hanger(201) is a single elongated element generally in the shape of a curved,inverted U, with stems (202, 203) of approximately the same length,thickness, and shape. However, in an embodiment, the hanger (201) may beof any size or shape appropriate for attaching to a rain gutter (102)and the specific size and shape of the hanger (201), including but notlimited to the quantity, shape, size, length, thickness, spacing, andarrangement of the hanger or hangers (201) will necessarily varydepending on the size and shape of the particular rain gutter (102) withwhich a given embodiment of the rain gutter illumination system (100) isdesigned to be used. For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6,the apparatus includes two hangers (1000A) and (100013B) which are notelongated sections, and which are not the same design, one being curvedand the other being orthogonal. Similarly, in the embodiment depicted inFIG. 7, the apparatus again includes two hangers (1100), both being thesame design and having one stem that is longer than the other.

The hanger (201) may be made from any material of sufficient rigidity tomaintain its own shape and of sufficient strength to support the raingutter illumination system (100), including but not limited to:aluminum, cast iron, lead, zinc, copper, steel, stainless steel, a metalalloy, a galvanized metal or steel, PVC, plastic, vinyl, concrete,stone, or wood. In an embodiment, the hanger (201) may be made from thesame material or materials as another element of the rain gutterillumination system (100). In an embodiment, the hanger (201) may bemade from a different material or materials than another element of therain gutter illumination system (100).

In the depicted embodiment, the base (214) is sized and shaped forattaching to a rain gutter (102). The depicted embodiment of the base(214) is a single elongated element generally in the shape of anorthogonal L, with a short leg (211) extending above the foot (212) andthe leg (211) is attached to the foot (212) generally perpendicularly.In the depicted embodiment, the base (214) provides a supporting surfacefor a source of illumination (300), but in an embodiment the source ofillumination (300) may be attached to, or supported by, another elementof the rain gutter illumination system (100), including but not limitedto by hardware or other components not depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B. In anembodiment, the source of illumination (300) is attached to theilluminable surface (205). In another embodiment, the source ofillumination (300) is attached to the rain gutter (102).

In an embodiment, the size and shape of the base (214), including butnot limited to the quantity, shape, size, length, thickness, spacing,and arrangement of the base or bases (214) or legs (212) or feet (211)will necessarily vary depending on the size and shape of the particularrain gutter (102) with which a given embodiment of the rain gutterillumination system (100) is designed to be used. For example, in theembodiment depicted in FIG. 7, the apparatus has a plurality of bases(1103), neither of which is elongated and both of which have triangularlegs (1102).

In an embodiment of the base (214): there is no leg (211); there is nofoot (212); the leg (211) extends above or below the foot (212); the leg(211) is attached to the building (101); the foot (212) is attached tothe building; the leg (211) and the foot (212) are arranged in anon-perpendicular fashion; the leg (211) is longer than the foot (212);there is more than one base (214); the base (214) includes more than onefoot (212); the base (214) includes more than one leg (211); a foot(212) includes more than one leg (211); a leg (211) includes more thanone foot (212); the base (214), leg (211), or foot (212) contain one ormore apertures, vents, drains, or other openings; the base (214) isT-shaped; the base (214) is shaped other than in an the shape of an L.In an embodiment, the source of illumination (300) projects lightthrough an aperture in the base (214).

The base (214) may be made from any material of sufficient rigidity tomaintain its own shape, including but not limited to: aluminum, castiron, lead, zinc, copper, steel, stainless steel, a metal alloy, agalvanized metal or steel, PVC, plastic, vinyl, concrete, stone, orwood. In an embodiment, the base (214) may be made from the samematerial or materials as another element of the rain gutter illuminationsystem (100). In an embodiment, the base (214) may be made from adifferent material or materials than another element of the rain gutterillumination system (100).

In the depicted embodiment, the rain gutter illumination system (100) isattached to the rain gutter (102) by placing the hanger (201) over theexterior wall (106) of the rain gutter (102), and placing the leg (211)of the base (214) between the interior wall (105) of the rain gutter(102) and the building (101). In the depicted embodiment, the base (214)provides support for the source of illumination (300), which is locatedbetween the interior side (209) of the illuminable surface (205) and theexterior wall (106) of the rain gutter (102). There are other means bywhich the cover (200) may be attached to the rain gutter (102) and/orstabilized, including but not limited to static pressure and the use ofhardware, adhesives, or other components not depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B.

In the depicted embodiment, the illuminable surface (205) is sized andshaped to provide an aperture (210) through which the source ofillumination (300) projects illumination. Also in the depictedembodiment, the illuminable surface (205) is an elongated polyhedronattached longitudinally to an embodiment of a hanger (201) and alsoattached longitudinally to an embodiment of a base (214). However, theilluminable surface (205) need not be polyhedral and may be, by way ofexample and not limitation: spheroidal, toroidal, ellipsoidal, orlentoidal.

In the depicted embodiment, the illuminable surface (205) is configuredat an angle of approximately 105° to the base (214), and at an angle ofapproximately 165° to the exterior stem (203) of the hanger (201). In anembodiment, the angles at which the components are attached to eachother will vary depending on a number of factors, including but notlimited to: the specific size and shape of each component; the size,shape, and orientation of the rain gutter (102); and the location fromwhich spectators view the aperture (210) in the illuminable surface(205).

In an embodiment, the rain gutter illumination system (100) is attachedto a rain gutter (102) attached to a building (101) and spectators viewthe aperture (210) from an elevation lower than the elevation of therain gutter illumination system (100). In such an embodiment, the angleof the illuminable surface (205) to the base (214) is generally greaterthan 90°.

In an embodiment, the angle between the illuminable surface (205) andthe base (214) is: less than 15°; less than 30°; less than 45°; lessthan 60°; less than 75°; less than 90°; less than 105°; less than 120°;less than 135°; less than 150°; less than 165°; less than 180°; lessthan 195°; less than 210°; less than 225°; less than 240°; less than255°; less than 270°; less than 285°; less than 300°; less than 315°;less than 330°; less than 345°; less than 360°.

In an embodiment, the angle between the interior side (109) of theilluminable surface (205) and the base (214) is: greater than 0°;greater than 15°; greater than 30°; greater than 45°; greater than 60°;greater than 75°; greater than 90°; greater than 105°; greater than120°; greater than 135°; greater than 150°; greater than 165°; greaterthan 180; greater than 195°; greater than 210°; greater than 225°;greater than 240°; greater than 255°; greater than 270°; greater than285°; greater than 300°; greater than 315°; greater than 330°; greaterthan 345°.

In an embodiment, the rain gutter illumination system (100) is attachedto a rain gutter (102) attached to a building (101) and spectators viewthe aperture (210) from an elevation higher than the elevation of therain gutter illumination system (100). In such an embodiment, the angleof the illuminable surface (205) to the base (214) is generally lessthan 90°.

In an embodiment, the angle between the illuminable surface (205) andthe hanger (201) is: less than 15°; less than 30°; less than 45°; lessthan 60°; less than 75°; less than 90°; less than 105°; less than 1200;less than 135°; less than 1500; less than 165°; less than 180°; lessthan 195°; less than 210°; less than 225°; less than 240°; less than255°; less than 270°; less than 285°; less than 300°; less than 315°;less than 330°; less than 345°; less than 360°.

In an embodiment, the angle between the illuminable surface (205) andthe hanger (201) is: greater than 00; greater than 15°; greater than30°; greater than 45°; greater than 60°; greater than 75°; greater than900; greater than 105°; greater than 120°; greater than 135°; greaterthan 150°; greater than 165°; greater than 180°; greater than 195°;greater than 210°; greater than 225°; greater than 240°; greater than255°; greater than 270°; greater than 285°; greater than 300°; greaterthan 315°; greater than 3200; greater than 345°.

In the depicted embodiment, the source of illumination (300) is a lightribbon, but the source of illumination (300) may be any type oflighting, including but not limited to: a light string, light ribbon,strip lighting, tape light, flexible lighting, gas lights, electricallights, natural lights, candles, or lamps. In an embodiment, the sourceof illumination (300) may have special uses, properties or affects,including but not limited to: single color lights, multi-color lights,flashing lights, blinking lights, strobe lights, runway lights, or blacklights. In an embodiment, the source of illumination (300) isilluminated such that each aperture (501) is illuminated in a designatedsequence. In a similar embodiment, the apertures (501) are shaped likeframes of an animation and when the source of illumination (300) isilluminated such that each aperture (501) is illuminated in a designedsequence, the apparatus presents the impression of an animationprogressing along the apparatus.

The illuminable surface (205) may be made from any material ofsufficient rigidity to maintain its own shape, including but not limitedto: aluminum, cast iron, lead, zinc, copper, steel, stainless steel, ametal alloy, a galvanized metal or steel, PVC, plastic, vinyl, concrete,stone, or wood. In an embodiment, the illuminable surface (205) is madefrom the same material or materials as another element of the raingutter illumination system (100). In an embodiment, the illuminablesurface (205) is made from a different material or materials thananother element of the rain gutter illumination system (100).

Although in the depicted embodiment the illuminable surface (205) hasone large, generally orthogonal aperture (210) through which the sourceof illumination (300) projects illumination, in an embodiment theaperture (210) may be of any size, shape, or configuration. For example,in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the illuminable surface (205) hasmultiple apertures (210) in different, decorative shapes, and theilluminable surface (205) provides the decorative element of theapparatus. This use may be preferred where the desired decorativecharacter of the apertures (210) is fixed. By way of example and notlimitation, one such use is by commercial enterprises wherein thedecorative shapes of the apertures (210) are themed to match the goodsor services offered or sold by the enterprise, such as a retail store,restaurant, or vacation resort.

In an embodiment, the cover (200) is removable and/or detachable fromthe rain gutter (102) and/or building (101) and may be removed and/ordetached as needed, including but not limited to for cleaning, repair,replacement, improvement, and maintenance. In the typical mode of use,the cover (200) is attached to the rain gutter (102) and left in placeindefinitely. In an embodiment, there may be one or more gaps betweenthe cover (200) and rain gutter (102). In an embodiment having one ormore gaps between the cover (200) and rain gutter (102), one or more ofthe gaps may be partially or fully filled with a waterproofing barrier,including without limitation a butyl sealant.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, the apparatus includes adecorative insert (807) placed in the apparatus such that the decorativeinsert (807) is visible through an aperture (804) in the illuminablesurface (801), and the decorative insert (807) generally blocksillumination from being projected through the aperture (804) of theilluminable surface (801), except for where such illumination isprojected through an aperture or apertures (808) in the decorativeinsert (807). In the depicted embodiment, the apparatus also includes adiffusing panel insert (806) but the apparatus may be used with adecorative insert (807) and without a diffusing panel insert (806). Inan embodiment, the apparatus may have more than one decorative insert(807) and/or more than one diffusing panel insert (806). In anembodiment, some illumination may “bleed” through gaps between thedecorative insert (807) and the illuminable surface (801), whether by ordespite the design of the embodiment of the apparatus. In a furtherembodiment, the diffusing panel insert (806) may be held in place byadditional components not depicted, including without limitationbrackets and/or channels.

In an embodiment including a decorative insert (500), the decorativeinsert (500) may be changed from season to season and from event toevent without having to change or alter the cover (200). This use may bepreferred where the decorative character of the apparatus will changefrequently. One such use is for a residential structure wherein thedecorator of such structure wishes to match the décor of the structurewith the holiday or season. Also by way of example and not limitation,another such use is for a commercial enterprise which hosts events at alocation hall, wherein the décor of the location is changed to match aparticular event at the location, such as a graduation, bar mitzvah,wedding, or retirement party. In an embodiment, the decorative insert(500) may be held in place by additional components not depicted,including without limitation brackets and/or channels. In an embodimentalso including a diffusing panel insert (806) held in place byadditional components, the same or different components may be used tohold the diffusing panel insert (806) and decorative insert (807, 500)in place.

In an embodiment, the decorative theme is or includes a religious orsecular holiday or season, including, but not limited to: New Year'sDay, Boxing Day, Valentine's Day, President's Day, St. Patrick's Day,Easter, Lent, Mardi Gras, May Day, Cinco de Mayo, April Fool's Day, GoodFriday, Chinese New Year, Labor Day, Memorial Day, Columbus Day, FlagDay, Armed Forces Day, Independence Day, Father's Day, Mother's Day,Halloween, Thanksgiving. All Saint's Day, Christmas, Advent, Chanukah,Yom Kippur, or Rosh Hashanah.

In an embodiment, the decorative theme is or includes an event, occasionor cause, including, but not limited to: wedding, marriage, civil union,adoption, birth, graduation, anniversary, birthday, retirement, welcomehome, welcome to the neighborhood, get well, shower, donation, bonvoyage, proposal, good luck, congratulations, back to school, sympathy,military deployment or return, bar mitzvah, bat mitzvah, or gratitude.

In an embodiment, the decorative theme is or includes a hobby, interest,or organization, including but not limited to: games, video games, boardgames, gambling, poker, cards, television, photography, movies, music,dance, theater, opera, sports, motor sports, vacation, travel, military,carpentry, outdoor recreation, hunting, fishing, exercise, adventure,science, science fiction, fantasy, history, painting, pottery, cooking,food, dining, beer, wine, or spirits.

In an embodiment, the decorative theme is or includes letters, numbers,or other typographical glyphs, in any typesetting, font or style of anylanguage or communicative means, including but not limited to: naturallanguages, artificial languages, fictional languages, dead languages,hieroglyphic languages, Morse code, computer programming languages,binary, octal, hexadecimal and Braille.

In an embodiment, the decorative theme is or includes a corporate orother commercial identity, including but not limited to a logo ortrademark.

The decorative insert (500) may be made from any material of sufficientrigidity to maintain its own shape, including, but not limited to:aluminum, cast iron, lead, zinc, steel, copper, stainless steel, a metalalloy, a galvanized metal or steel, PVC, plastic, vinyl, concrete,stone, or wood. In an embodiment, the decorative insert (500) may bemade from the same material or materials as another element of the raingutter illumination system (100). In an embodiment, the decorativeinsert (500) may be made from a different material or materials thananother element of the rain gutter illumination system (100).

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3, the apparatus includes a diffusingpanel insert (706). The diffusing panel insert (706) serves a number ofpurposes, including without limitation to alter the character of theillumination projected from the apparatus by the source of illumination(705), such as by altering the distribution, color, pattern, texture,and/or intensity of the illumination. In an embodiment including adiffusing panel insert (706), a source of illumination (705) is placedbehind the diffusing panel insert (706) such that illumination from thesource of illumination (705) projects through the diffusing panel insert(706). In an embodiment also including the decorative insert (807), suchas the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, the diffusing panel insert (806)is placed behind the decorative insert (807). Although one purpose ofthe diffusing panel insert (806) is to alter the character ofillumination passing through it, in an embodiment, the diffusing panelinsert (806) prevents the transmission or projection of most or all ofthe illumination projected by the source of illumination (705). Asdepicted in FIG. 2, the apparatus may have neither a diffusing panelinsert (400) nor a decorative insert (500), and the source ofillumination (605) projects illumination directly through an aperture(604) in the illuminable surface (601). As depicted in FIG. 5, apertures(210) in the illuminable surface (205) may be decorative in shape.

In an embodiment, the diffusing panel insert (400) makes more uniformthe spectator's perceived distribution of the luminosity of the sourceof illumination (300). In an embodiment, the diffusing panel insert(400) is tinted or colored to alter the color tone of the lightprojected through the diffusing panel insert (400) by the source ofillumination (300). In an embodiment, the diffusing panel insert (400)contains one or more apertures. In an embodiment, the apertures in thediffusing panel (400) are in decorative shapes. In an embodiment, thediffusing panel insert (400) includes a color, tinting, texture,pattern, or other characteristic which alters the character of theillumination projected through the diffusing panel insert by the sourceof illumination (300). The diffusing panel insert (400) may vary in,among other things, transparency, translucence, color, texture,thickness, material, and/or pattern. The diffusing panel insert (400)may be made from any material of sufficient rigidity to maintain its ownshape and which transmits illumination, including but not limited to:glass, fabric, paper, plastic, resins, cellophane, quartz, ice,ceramics, gel, or organic compounds.

Also described herein is a rain gutter illumination system comprising: acover sized and shaped for attaching to a rain gutter and comprising: ahanger generally in an inverted U-shape and having a stem, the stemhaving a distal end; an illuminable surface a side element attached tothe distal end of the stem, the illuminable surface side element beinggenerally in the configuration of a longitudinally elongated contiguousrectangular prism and having an interior side and an opposing exteriorside and an aperture from the interior side to the exterior side, theaperture extending substantially along the length of the side element; abase, the base being generally L-shaped and having a leg and a foot, thefoot having a proximal end attached to the leg and a distal end attachedto the illuminable surface side element; a decorative insert having aplurality of decorative apertures, the decorative insert being sized andshaped for sliding into the cover adjacent to the interior side of theilluminable surface side element such that at least one decorativeaperture in the plurality of decorative apertures is visible from theexterior side of the illuminable surface side element through theaperture in the illuminable surface side element; a source ofillumination projecting illumination through the at least one visibledecorative aperture such that an illuminated representation of the atleast one visible decorative aperture is visible from the exterior sideof the illuminable surface side element when the cover is installed on arain gutter and the source of illumination is illuminated in the cover.

In an embodiment, this system is further comprised of: a diffusing panelinsert sized and shaped for sliding into the cover adjacent to thedecorative insert such that the illumination projected through the atleast one visible decorative aperture is diffused by the diffusingpanel. In a still further embodiment, the diffusing panel insert isgenerally translucent. In an alternative further embodiment, thediffusing panel insert is generally transparent.

In an alternative embodiment, at least one decorative aperture is in theshape of a seasonally-themed symbol. In a further alternativeembodiment, the at least one decorative aperture is in the shape of atypographical glyph.

In an alternative embodiment, the at least one decorative aperture is inthe shape of a logo or trademark. In another alternative embodiment, thesource of illumination is selected from the group consisting of:single-color lights, multi-color lights, flashing lights, blinkinglights, strobe lights, runway lights, black lights.

Also described herein, among other things, is a method for decorativeillumination comprising: providing a cover sized and shaped forattaching to a rain gutter and having an illuminable surface a sideelement generally in the configuration of a longitudinally elongatedcontiguous rectangular prism, the illuminable surface a side elementhaving an aperture from the interior side to the exterior side of theilluminable surface a side element, the aperture extending substantiallyalong the length of the side element; providing a source ofillumination; providing a decorative insert comprising a plurality ofdecorative apertures; installing the cover on a rain gutter; placing thedecorative insert in the cover such that at least one decorativeaperture in the plurality of decorative apertures is visible from theexterior side through the aperture in the illuminable surface a sideelement; placing the source of illumination in the cover; illuminatingthe source of illumination; projecting illumination from the source ofilluminated source of illumination through the at least one decorativeaperture.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises: further providing adiffusing panel insert; placing the diffusing panel insert in the cover;diffusing the illumination projected through the at least one decorativeaperture with the diffusing panel insert.

In certain embodiments, stabilizing elements may be included whichinhibit unintended or undesired light leaking. In particular, if thedecorative insert is not generally flush against the side element (801),light may “leak” from the edges of the aperture (804) in the sideelement (801), detracting from the aesthetics. This may be addressed inan embodiment through the use of one or more stabilizing elements whichapply force to the decorative insert (807) to push it against the sideelement (801). This not only inhibits light leakage, but also inhibitsmovement caused by environmental forces, such as high winds which cancause the insert to “rattle” in the cover, producing undesirable noise.

For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8A, a foam block (810)is attached to the back of the decorative insert (807). The foam block(810) is sized and shaped so that when the foam block (810) is attachedto the decorative insert (807) and the decorative insert (807) isinstalled in the cover (200), the foam block (810) physically contactsthe exterior of the rain gutter (102). Generally, the dimensions of thefoam block (810) are such that the foam block is compressed wheninserted. That is, the depth (818) of the foam block is larger than thedistance between the back surface (820) of the decorative insert (807)and the closest point (822) on the rain gutter (102). The foam block(810) is generally located or placed on the decorative insert (807) suchthat when the decorative insert (807) is installed in the cover (200),the foam block (810) will be between the back surface (820) and theclosest point (822) of the rain gutter (102). This provides frictionbetween the rain gutter (102) and foam bock (810). If the foam block(810) is affixed to the decorative insert (807), movement of thedecorative insert (807) is inhibited. Moreover, the tendency of thecompressed foam block (810) to regain its natural, uncompressed shapeand dimensions applies outward pressure on both the rain gutter (102)and the back surface (820) of the decorative insert (807). This pressurereduces the gap, if any, between the decorative insert (807) and theside element (801), reducing or eliminating light leakage.

In an embodiment, multiple foam blocks (810) of varying shapes or sizesmay be used, depending on where light leakage is experienced. By way ofexample and not limitation, if light leakage is detected at the bottom,a larger block (not depicted) may be used, in similar fashion, to keepthe bottom of the decorative insert (807) flush with the side element(801). The size and shape of the foam block (810) will naturally varydepending on the particular configuration of the rain gutter (102) andcover (200). In an embodiment, one or more blocks (810) may not be cubicor rectangular, but rather may be any three-dimensional shape, notnecessarily limited to polyhedral configurations. By way of example andnot limitation, the foam block (810) may be a single elongated blockalong some or all of the length of the decorative insert (807).Alternatively, a plurality of foam blocks (810) may be attached, such asin the decorative insert (807) depicted in FIG. 8B.

In an embodiment, other stabilization elements may additionally, oralternatively, be included. Stabilizing elements may also be attached tothe cover (200). By way of example and not limitation, in the depictedembodiment of FIG. 8A, a stabilizing element (812) is affixed to theinterior of the cover (200) such that the stabilizing element (812)contacts the decorative insert (807). This reduces lateral movement ofthe decorative insert (807) in the cover (200), improving aestheticappearance and reducing unintended movement, such as duringinstallation, inclement weather, or tampering. This may also allow thedevice to be installed and used in conjunction with a rain gutter (102),or other attachment point, where the device is installed at an angle orincline. In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 8A, a foam block (812) isaffixed to the top surface (824) of the base, but the positioning mayvary. By way of example and not limitation, the foam block (812) couldbe affixed to the interior surface (826) of the side element (801). Aswith foam block (810), the side, shape, and placement of a foam block(812) affixed to the cover (200) may vary from embodiment to embodiment.The foam block (812) may be a single foam block, such as alongitudinally elongated foam block, or may be one of a plurality offoam blocks.

In a still further embodiment, one or more stabilizing elements (814)may be affixed to the top or bottom of the decorative insert (807) tostabilize it in the cover (200). By way of example and not limitation,in the depicted embodiment of FIG. 8B, a foam block (814) is affixed tothe top edge of the decorative insert (807). The depicted foam block(814) is generally in the configuration of a longitudinally elongatedrectangular prism generally affixed longitudinally to the top edge ofthe decorative insert (807). The depicted foam block is about the samethickness as the insert (807), which allows the foam block (814) to alsofit into a cover (200) configured to accept the insert (807). As withother compressible stabilizing elements, such as foam block (810), it isgenerally expected that the dimensions of the foam block (814) will besuch that the foam block (814) compresses at least somewhat wheninserted, and the force of the foam block (814) attempting to return toits natural, uncompressed shape provides additional friction, holdingthe decorative insert (807) in place. Similar principles apply to alower foam block (816), which may additionally or alternatively be used.

Although foam blocks are described, other stabilizing elements are knownin the art and may also, or alternatively, be used. Where foam is used,any type of foam may be used, but a lightweight foam with a relativelyhigh coefficient of friction is preferred. It is also preferred that thefoam be weather-resistant and fire-resistant, as the blocks may be nearor adjacent to the source of illumination (300), which may producesubstantial heat in the confined interior of the cover (200), or whichmay be an open flame. The foam need not be permanently attached to thedecorative insert, but because the foam will generally experienceshearing force when the decorative insert (807) is slid into the cover(200), installation is simpler if the foam is glued or otherwiseattached in a rigid or semi-rigid manner.

In a still further embodiment, stabilization and/or flushness areaddressed through cover shapes. By way of example and not limitation, inthe depicted embodiments of FIGS. 9A and 9B, side element (801) is sizedand shaped to retain the decorative insert (807) with opposing recesses(901) and (903) at the opposing top (905) and bottom (907) edges of theside element (801). The depicted channels are generally in theconfiguration of a channel or trough. The cover (200) of FIG. 9Acomprises a top channel (901) formed by a top retaining element (909)generally in the configuration of an inverted U-shape, and an opposingbottom channel (903) formed by a bottom retaining element (911)generally in the configuration of a U-shape (911). The top retainingelement (909) is generally a part of, or rigidly affixed or attached to,the side element (801) along the top edge (905) of the side element(801). In the depicted embodiment, the top retaining element (909) issituated between the top edge (905) of the side element (801) and thehanger. Likewise, the bottom retaining element (911) is generallyrigidly attached to the bottom edge (907) of the side element (801), andsituated between the bottom edge (907) of the side element and the base.

The U-shape of the top and bottom retaining elements (909) and (911) isformed by two stems or legs connected by a cross-element. Generally,retaining elements (909) and (911) are attached such that the channels(901) and (903) are on the same side of the side element (801). This isso that the channels (901) and (903) are opposing and open towards oneanother, allowing a decorative insert (807) of the appropriate size andshape to be slid into the cover (200) such that the top of thedecorative insert (807) is within the top channel (901) and the bottomof the decorative insert (807) is within the bottom channel (903). Thechannels then generally hold the decorative insert (807) in place andinhibit movement. For the top retaining element (909), the stem notattached to the side element (801) is generally attached to the hangingelement. For the bottom retaining element (911), the stem not attachedto the side element (801) is generally attached to the base.

The depicted retaining elements (909) and (911) are, like the depictedside element (801), generally longitudinally elongated, such that whenthe cover (200) is attached to a rain gutter (102), the retainingelements (909) and (911) generally run the length of the gutter, atleast the same extent as the cover (200). This allows one or moredecorative inserts (807) installed in the cover (200) to run the lengthof the cover (200). The retaining elements (909) and (911) are attachedto the side element (801) in a generally flush fashion—that is, thecorresponding stems of the opposing retaining elements (909) and (911)attached to the side element (801) such that the opposing attached stemsand side element (801) are generally coplanar. Again, this conforms tothe shape of the decorative insert (807) and facilitates a snug fit ofthe opposing ends of the decorative insert (807) in the opposingchannels (901) and (903), inhibiting movement and improving flushness.

The dimensions and shape of the retaining elements (909) and (911) willnecessarily vary from embodiment to embodiment, but it is generallycontemplated that the retaining elements (909) and (911) are sized andshaped to form channels (901) and (903) whose widths are about the sameas the thickness of the components to be held in place by the retainingelements (909) and (911). By way of example and not limitation, if adecorative insert alone is to be used, having a thickness of one-eighthof an inch, retaining elements (901) and (903) are generally sized andshaped so that the channels (901) and (903) are about one-eighth of aninch across, or just slightly more, and will snugly accommodate aone-eighth inch insert. Also by way of example and not limitation, whereboth a decorative insert and diffusing panel are to be used, and thecombination of the two has a thickness of one-quarter of an inch, theretaining elements (901) and (903) are generally sized and shapes sothat the channels (901) and (903) are about one-quarter of an inchacross, or just slightly more, and will snugly accommodate a one-quarterinch thick combined decorative insert/diffusing panel.

In an embodiment, these retention elements may be used alternatively, oradditionally, to other stabilization elements, including but notnecessarily limited to the foam blocks described elsewhere herein.

In an embodiment, the source of illumination is controlled by a remotecontrol device, such as in the depicted embodiment of FIG. 10. In thedepicted embodiment, the source of illumination (300) is a light ropecommunicatively coupled (1003) to a controller (1001), but anycontrollable source of illumination (300) may be used. The controller(1001) is generally an electric or digital electronic device withcircuitry and/or programming for causing, via the communicative coupling(1003), the light rope (300) to exhibit certain illumination patterns,behaviors, or characteristics. Such characteristics are described, inpart, elsewhere herein, and may include, but are not necessarily limitedto: turning on, turning off, blinking, flashing, running lights, landinglights, patterns, alternative blinking, changes in color, changes inintensity or luminosity, strobe, and pulsing. The depicted controller(1001) is an external component, but in an embodiment, the controller(1001) may be integrated with or into the source of illumination (300).

The remote control device (1009) may be any device communicativelycoupled to the controller (1001), whether directly, indirectly, or both,and capable of sending commands or instructions to the controller(1001). While special purpose devices with particular circuitry orprogramming for doing so are contemplated, the more typical embodimentis that a smart phone (1009) or other similar technology, such as atablet computer, is used for this task via a specialized application(1025) stored on a computer-readable medium (1023) in such device(1009). Although a smart phone (1009) is depicted, the device (1009) maybe any programmable computing device, including but not necessarilylimited to a laptop, PC, tablet computer, smart watch or other wearabletechnology, home automation system, and so forth.

In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 10, the remote control device (1009)is communicatively coupled indirectly to the controller (1001) through alocal wireless network. In the depicted embodiment, the remote controldevice (1009) is communicatively coupled (1011) to a wireless router(1007), and the wireless router (1007) is communicatively coupled (1013)to the controller (1001). In the depicted embodiment, commands orinstructions sent from the remote control device (1009) to thecontroller (1001) are routed over a local wireless network using TCP/IPand/or other protocols known in the art. The commands or instructionsare then sent (1013) from the router (1007) to the controller (1001) andthe controller (1001) may interpret and/or execute the instructions tocause the light (300) to behave as instructed.

Alternatively, where the remote control device (1009) is too far awayfrom the wireless router (1007) for a local connection (1011), the usermay connect to the router (1017) over a wide-area telecommunicationsnetwork (1015), such as but not necessarily limited to the Internet(1015). In the depicted embodiment, the remote control device (1009) iscommunicatively coupled (1019) to a telecommunications network (1015),and the wireless router (1017) is also communicatively coupled (1017) tothe telecommunications network (1015). Instructions sent from the remotecontrol device (1009) are routed over the network connection (1019) tothe network (1015), and then to the router (1007) through its (1007)connection (1017) to the network (1015), and then from the router (1007)to the controller (1001) through a local connection (1013).

In a still further embodiment, the controller (1001) may be capable ofdirect wireless communication (1029) with the remote control device(1009) through a wide-area wireless network connection. By way ofexample and not limitation, in an embodiment, the controller (1001)includes or is otherwise communicatively coupled by, through, or to acloud computing network (1015), through which the remote control device(1009) communicates with the controller (1001). In a further embodiment,the system uses Apple® Homekit™ via iCloud®.

It is specifically contemplated that the controller may provideinformation or data back to the remote control device (1009). Thisinformation may be anything pertinent to the operation of the system,such as identifying dead bulbs, battery life estimates, un/off status,current operational mode, timer settings, schedule settings, warnings,and error or diagnostic codes. Such information may be displayed to theuser on the remote control device (1009) via a graphical user interface(1027) displayed on the device (1009) display (1021).

It will be appreciated that certain components described hereinnecessarily contain additional hardware and/or circuitry not necessarilyspecifically described herein but inherent or implied by thisdisclosure. By way of example and not limitation, where the controller(1001) communicates wirelessly with a router (1007) or other wirelesscommunication device, the controller (1001) includes or iscommunicatively coupled to a wireless transmitter/receiver for suchcommunication. Likewise, a smart phone (1009) is known in the art toinclude one or more wireless communication technologies, including WWAN,WLAN, and WPAN networks, such as but not necessarily limited to:cellular data protocols such as 3G, 4G, LTE, and the WiMAX/IEEE 802.16family of protocols; the IEEE 802.11 family of protocols, colloquiallyknown as WiFi™; the IEEE 802.15 family of controls, commercially knownas Bluetooth®; near-field communication and other radio-frequencyidentification standards or protocols. Similarly, it is known in the artthat wired implementations may be replaced or supplemented by wireless,and vice versa. Thus, the router (1007) depicted and described hereinimplicitly and/or implied discloses a wired router as well.

Although two exemplary network communication routes are depicted, alarge number of communication architectures and topographies arepossible, and may not necessarily use WiFi™. For example, in anembodiment, the device (1009) may be directly communicatively coupled tothe controller (1001), such as through Bluetooth® or another short-rangeprotocol, or through a proprietary or specialized protocol. In a stillfurther embodiment, the device (1009) may not be wirelessly coupled, butrather may be a wired device. Such a wired device may be, withoutlimitation, a wall panel or other control panel having a direct orindirect wired connection to the controller (1001).

Additionally, although the controller (1001) is depicted as beingphysically located in or near the light (300), it is specificallycontemplated that the controller (1001) may itself be remote from thelight (300). By way of example and not limitation, the controller (1001)may be located inside the structure, and communicatively coupled (1003)to the light (300)) from within the structure. This may be done wired orwirelessly. This has the advantage of allowing access to, and manualconfiguration of, the controller (1001) from within the comfort andwarmth of the home, which may be convenient for troubleshooting in coldwinter months, and may also inhibit tampering or theft.

Generally speaking, the mobile device application (1025) allows a userto control the appearance, behavior, or characteristics of the light(300) remotely by providing a user-manipulable graphical user interface(1027) displayed to the user on a display (1021) of the device (1009).This application may allow users to change the light color, such as byusing a color wheel as depicted, turn the lights on or off, set timersor schedules for illumination or light shows, turn on or off onlycertain strands or portions of the light, which may be custom-defined bythe user, alter the intensity or luminosity of the lights, and so forthas described elsewhere herein. Where the remote control device (1009) isnot a smart phone, the device (1009) may have manually manipulablecontrols, such as dials, buttons, switches, and other such elements,which are manipulated by the user to send commands. In a still furtherembodiment, the remote control device (1009) may be, include,incorporate, or be included in or incorporated by, in whole or part, thecontroller (1001).

The remote control device (1009) may synchronize or pair with aplurality of controllers (1001), allowing a plurality of lights to becontrolled thereby. In an embodiment, remote control device (1009)allows the user to identify, name, or define one or more lights and/orcontrollers (1001), such as by allowing the user to give acontroller/string a name in a smart phone application (e.g, “GarageString,” “Back Door,” “Driveway Right Side”). The user may thenmanipulate the behavior of individual lights via the remove controldevice (1009) by issuing comments to individual controllers.Alternatively, the user may group, associate, or “zone” controllers andlights and control groups. By way of example and not limitation, a usermay synchronize all light strings on the front of a structure as “FrontYard” in the application and when the user manipulates the “Front Yard”zone or group, all lights attached to controllers belonging to thatgroup are given the instructions provided by the user (e.g., turn on,turn off, blink, change color, etc.). A user may cause differentcontrollers or zones/groups of controllers to exhibit different behaviorat the same time, or may provide instructions, scripts, or otherprogrammatical instructions to affect light behavior.

While the invention has been disclosed in connection with exterior raingutters, it should be noted that the systems and methods describedherein are suitable for other applications as well, including interiorapplications, though the particular shape and structure of the cover maynecessarily change. By way of example and not limitation, it isspecifically contemplated that the systems and methods may be used inconnection with lighting for pools, decks, fences, path ways (such asbut not limited to walking paths, sidewalks, driveways, roads, lanes,movie theater rows, airplane rows, escape paths during an emergency, andthe like), perimeter lighting (including but not limited to floorlighting, such as to show the location of walls, doors, or obstacles ina room or hall), directional or navigational lighting, mailboxes andother landscaping, spotlighting, floor lighting, and so forth.

In an embodiment, the remote control device (1009) may be automaticallycontrolled, such as by a timing switch, motion detector, light sensors,humidity or precipitation sensor, or another sensor which may provide aninput usable by a controller to operate the lights. By way of exampleand not limitation, lights may automatically turn off at a particular,generally pre-defined time, but may also turn on (again, generally forparticular pre-determined amount of time) if a motion sensorcommunicatively coupled to the controller (1001) detects motion.

It is further contemplated that the system may include a means ormechanism for enforcing security and interoperability. For example, asensor or other component may be included, attached to, or integratedinto a decorative insert, which sensor is then detected by anothercomponent of the system, such as the controller (1001) or remote controlthe remote control device (1009). If the security component is notdetected, the light will not operate. This prevents the lights fromoperating in the event that a decorative insert is missing, stolen, orotherwise not in place, preventing an unpleasing appearance. It alsoenforces system interoperability. By way of example and not limitation,in an embodiment, an RFID tag is included, attached, embedded, orotherwise integrated into the decorative insert, such as that if thecontroller does not detect the correct RFID tag, the lights will notoperate. This can be used to prevent customers from using third-partyinserts.

While the invention has been disclosed in connection with certainpreferred embodiments, this should not be taken as a limitation to allof the provided details. Modifications and variations of the describedembodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention, and other embodiments should be understood to beencompassed in the present disclosure as would be understood by those ofordinary skill in the art.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A lighting system comprising: a cover having an aperture through said cover extending substantially along the length of said cover; an insert having at least one aperture, said insert configured to slide into said cover so that at least one of said apertures is visible through said cover aperture; a source of illumination; a controller communicatively coupled to said source of illumination; and a remote control device configured to control said source of illumination via said controller when said source of illumination is disposed in said cover.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein said cover configured to attach to the exterior of a rain gutter.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein said cover is configured for use in a pathway lighting system.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein said cover comprises a top channel and bottom channel on opposing sides of said aperture and said insert is configured to slide into said cover at said top channel and said bottom channel.
 5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a stabilizing element affixed to the interior side of said cover such that when said insert is in said cover, said stabilizing element inhibits movement of said insert.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein said remote control device is a smart phone, tablet computer, or smart watch.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein said remote control device is configured to control said source of illumination using an application executing on a microprocessor of said remote control device.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein said remote control device is communicatively coupled to said controller at least in part using a wireless local area network.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein said remote control device is communicatively coupled to said controller at least in part using a wide area network.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein controlling said source of illumination is selected from the group consisting of: turning said source of illumination on or off, altering the luminosity of said source of illumination, altering the visible color of the illumination provided by said source of illumination, and causing said source of illumination to blink.
 11. A pathway lighting system comprising: a pathway lighting cover having an aperture through said cover extending substantially along the length of said cover; an insert having at least one aperture, said insert configured to slide into said pathway cover so that at least one of said apertures is visible through said cover aperture; a source of illumination; a controller communicatively coupled to said source of illumination; and a remote control device configured to control said source of illumination via said controller according to a user-supplied input to said remote control device when said source of illumination is disposed in said cover.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein said cover comprises a top channel and bottom channel on opposing sides of said aperture and said insert is configured to slide into said cover at said top channel and said bottom channel.
 13. The system of claim 11, further comprising a stabilizing element affixed to the interior side of said cover such that when said insert is in said cover, said stabilizing element inhibits movement of said insert.
 14. The system of claim 11, wherein said remote control device is a digital computer.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein said digital computer is a mobile device.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein said mobile device is a smart phone, tablet computer, or smart watch.
 17. The system of claim 14, wherein said remote control device is configured to control said source of illumination using an application executing on a microprocessor of said remote control device.
 18. The system of claim 11, wherein said remote control device is communicatively coupled to said controller at least in part using a wireless local area network.
 19. The system of claim 11, wherein said remote control device is communicatively coupled to said controller at least in part using a wide area network.
 20. The system of claim 11, wherein controlling said source of illumination is selected from the group consisting of turning said source of illumination on or off, altering the luminosity of said source of illumination, altering the visible color of the illumination provided by said source of illumination, and causing said source of illumination to blink. 